FBI Disrupts Plot to Attack AIPAC Office in Plantation, Florida Before Hanukkah

Jan 1, 2025, 05:55 PM

The FBI has disrupted an alleged plot by Forrest Kendall Pemberton, a Gainesville, Florida resident, to attack the offices of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) in Plantation, Florida. Pemberton was arrested on December 25 while in possession of three firearms, including an AR-15 rifle, and ammunition. According to court documents, he had scouted the location on December 22 and 23, intending to return later with concealed weapons to harm employees of the pro-Israel organization before the first night of Hanukkah. The FBI began tracking Pemberton after his family reported concerning behavior, including leaving a goodbye note with anti-authority sentiments and making ATM withdrawals near AIPAC’s office. Pemberton admitted to law enforcement that he initially planned to carry out a mass casualty event but later decided against it. He has been charged with federal stalking and remains in pretrial detention, with a detention hearing scheduled for January 6. AIPAC has expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their efforts.